5 Ways to Look Instantly Sexier in Your Clothes

You probably only go to the tailor when you need a pair of too-long jeans hemmed or a bridesmaid dress fitted. But an expert seamstress can be your secret fashion weapon. For just a few bucks, you can make your clothes look way hotter and fit you way better. And a couple of stitches in the right place can even take five pounds off your frame. We got Lars Nord, a tailor in New York City, to spill these little-known tricks on clothes that make you look thinner...

Just because they're called "boyfriend blazers" does not mean you should look like you're walking around wearing your guy's suit jacket. The blazer should fit snugly when it's buttoned and not be boxy or oversized, which can make you look, well, kinda androgynous — and heavier. Ask the tailor to use the back or side seam to bring in any extra fabric around your torso.

2. Go Big or Go Home

This should be not only your motto at work, but also at the mall. If you find something to-die-for, but it's sold out in your size, go for the next size up. It's much easier to tailor down a garment that is too big than too small. There's one exception, though: steer clear of pieces that fit you large in the hip or the shoulder area. Those areas are the most difficult to tweak and any tailoring there could cost you quite a bit.

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3. Instantly Look Toned Up-Top

Too-long sleeves create the illusion of serious poundage on your upper body. A good rule of thumb is that sleeves should end right at your wrist when your arms are hanging by your sides. So if you have tops that hang past that point, bring them in to be shortened.
Keep in mind, though, that shortening sleeves more than an inch can make the shape of the arm look distorted. But if you already own an item with sleeves that go more than an inch past your wrist, there's no need to toss it. Have the tailor put a pretty fabric inside the sleeves, so you can roll them for a cute and polished look.

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4. Bring in Your Bags and Bras

Yep, purses and lingerie can be tailored too. Have oversized straps on handbags shortened since they can make petite women look even shorter. And if your bra straps get stretched out, ask the tailor to replace them. Other stuff you can have him tweak to fit you better: belts, leggings, and even bathing suits. It may cost a bit more than hemming jeans, but it beats leaving an awesome item in the back of your closet because it doesn't look right on you.

5. There's a Trick to Getting a Discount

The place may list prices online or in the store, but there's often a little bit of wiggle room. Your best bet for negotiating a discount is to bring in a bunch of stuff at once. The tailor might be willing to cut you a deal since you're giving him lots of business.